Tom Brady will be looking for James White and Dion Lewis in Denver

James White played on 27 snaps compared to Dion Lewis, who had 17. Their touches were almost even at 5-4 respectively, but we need to pay special attention to this duo this week.

The strength of the Broncos is their pass rush and dynamic corners. It’s hard to trust Malcolm Mitchell, Chris Hogan, and even Edelman, although he is probably the one I would trust the way they move him around. Broncos are #1 DVOA vs the pass, particularly to wide receivers and tight ends. They rank #16 DVOA in passes to the RB, and the Patriots RBs play an integral part in their passing game. Blount will be used, but in passing situations Lewis and White will have opportunities to contribute. It seems like James White is trusted more to pass protect, which allows him to be out on the field more. Expect him to get some dump offs and line up at receiver if Brady sees a linebacker matched up on him.

Dion Lewis is the more intriguing player, but if I had to pick one as a desperation start this week, I would go James White in PPR. Non-PPR, I wouldn’t even think about it. If Tom Brady is going to have some success against this tough Broncos defense, the RBs need to play a huge part in the gameplan.